By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com
The Canadian Sheep Federation (CSF) announced Wednesday, the release of the new Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Sheep.
“Our industry's participation in the Code development process demonstrates our producers continued commitment to animal health and welfare, and dedication to responsible animal husbandry,” Corlena Patterson, executive director of the Canadian Sheep Federation said in a release.
The development of the revised code was initiated January 2011. The new code took into consideration feedback from industry stakeholders, led by a 17-person committee who helped draft the code. The committee was comprised of sheep farmers, animal welfare representatives, researchers, transporters, processors, veterinarians and government. In addition to the 17 person panel, a four person scientific committee helped inform the code committee, providing research and veterinary expertise.
Before the revised code was released, the three-year process also included a public comment period from July 9 to Sept. 6, 2013. Public comments and the original draft were all components which helped create the new code.
The sheep code is one of eight livestock codes being revised by the National Farm Animal Care Council. The codes are meant to be a guide, which offer animal care requirements and recommend best practices. The code covers various topics including - housing, feed and water, handling, transportation, and euthanasia.
The code is made available online, and can be found on the National Farm Animal Care Council website: www.nfacc.ca/codes-of-practice/sheep.